A PATH FOR THE THINKER

Reflective or restorative sentiment? One toxic, the other beautiful. Like the sailor who never learns to swim, fear of a powerful ocean turns to respect for it, respect being key to survival. Knowledge provides a modicum of security but risk is what it is. What risk to an old Order?  Ennui. Indifference. Complacence. Sloth. Our Brotherhood is based on access to knowledge and use of imagination. Philosophy, symbolism and history come as easily to us as industry allows. If there is inspiration in the messaging, if there is perfection in a Lodge at work, it is because of the collective intellectual property of indivduals contributing to the symphony. The West Gate is where we winnow out those better suited to the audience than the stage. Symphonies vary slightly in size each chair waiting for talented artists who feel the chemistry and experience the impact, knowing each note, each instrument has it's place and time.  And so my clumsy metaphor for the Lodge is wrapped. Laziness doesn't belong there any more than a no-talent conductor leading a no-talent orchestra.  Ah, that's the easier part. Knowing how to get there from where we are- that is the challenge. First we talk. We draw everyone together, because it will take everyone to achieve the goal. Everyone has a place.  Do you think for a minute performance doesn't need lighting and sound, ticket sellers, ushers, advertising that stimulates and a receptive audience to celebrate success.  Everyone has a place in achieving the goal of striving to employ the imagination, to furnish the mind palace with the Catherdral that all can see.  We are timeless. Are we artists?